The SJRRC operates the Altamont Corridor Express (ACE), which connects the Central Valley and Silicon Valley via the Altamont Corridor and serves a million commuters per year.

The approved Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) builds upon the partnership between CHSRA and regional partner SJRRC since 2008. This MOU will allow the SJRRC to focus on near-term improvements to speed up and increase ACE service on the existing tracks and plan for regional service connections to Modesto and Merced. CHSRA will remain a partner in the planning process and the long-term goal of tying into the high-speed rail system will continue to inform the planning process.

"[CHSRA] continues to build constructive local partnerships to benefit the communities that will be served by improved rail service in the short term and ultimately connect to the high-speed rail system," said Jeff Morales, CEO of CHSRA. "The approval of today's agreement will benefit those who travel between the Bay Area and San Joaquin Valley and will help realize our vision of a seamless and integrated rail system throughout the state."

"We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with [CHSRA]," said Stacey Mortensen, executive director of SJRRC. "With this signed MOU, we can expedite improvements at the local level, while preparing ACE to be an important connecting service to high-speed rail."

following statement today upon Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez's appointment of

In other CHSRA happenings, Patrick Henning, Sr., was appointed to the authority's board of directors.

"We are pleased with the appointment of Patrick Henning, Sr., to the CHSRA Board of Directors by Assembly Speaker John Pérez. Patrick's experience includes years of distinguished public service, both at the state level and in his community. A hallmark of Henning's career has been his outreach to local chambers of commerce, labor councils and community organizations. We appreciate the unique experience he will bring to the board to help move the high-speed rail project forward. We thank Speaker Pérez and welcome Henning to the Board."